Swim Lessons for Kids
Ages 3–13
YMCA Group Swim Lessons are designed to help Missoula children ages 3–13 learn water adjustment and aquatic safety in a supportive and safe environment. Children ages 6+ will also work on stroke competency and rescue skills in addition to water adjustment and aquatic safety. All YMCA swim instructors are certified and use the nationally recognized YMCA Swim Lesson curriculum, which focuses on water safety, skill progression, and building confidence in the water. With an easy-to-follow swim progression, the Y is a trusted choice for Missoula kids who want to learn or strengthen swimming skills.
Dates & Pricing
Spring Swim Lessons We offer three sessions of Spring swim lessons—March, April, and May. Cost: $$ |
Summer Swim Lessons Do we offer summer swim lessons? Cost: $$ |
Fall Swim Lessons We offer three sessions of Fall swim lessons—September, October, and November. Cost: $$ |
Winter Swim Lessons We offer two sessions of Winter swim lessons—January and February. Cost: $$ |
What to Expect
30-Minute Lessons
Each lesson is 30 minutes long and led by a certified swim instructor.
Small-Group Sizes
Our group swim lessons maintain small class sizes to ensure each swimmer gets dedicated attention.
Progressive Lesson Structure
We teach a progressive swim lesson model, allowing swimmers to learn and develop swim skills in stages before moving to the next set of skills.
Group Swim Lesson FAQ
Swimmers should be on the pool deck in their suits five minutes before their class time.
Bathing suits are required for all swimmers. Swimmers with long hair should tie their hair back from their faces.
While swimmers are allowed to bring goggles, we encourage those new to swimming to get comfortable without wearing goggles.
The Missoula YMCA uses a progressive swim lessons model, which teaches swimming skills in stages and allows students to build their confidence and skills in the water. During the last week of class, swim instructors provide a report card to each swimmer and recommend if the swimmer should move to the next swim level or stay in the current level.
Each swim level has specific skills that must be met before swimmers can advance to the next level. It is not unusual for a swimmer to need to repeat a level more than once as repetition is key to learning!
Refunds and/or makeup classes are only provided should the pool be closed unexpectedly for a mechanical issue.
Yes. However, for the safety and privacy of all participants, you are only permitted to take photos or videos of your swimmer. As a reminder, cameras and cell phones are not permitted in locker or changing rooms.